City Cat Mobile Vet

City Cat Mobile Vet Service207 Harvard Ave ESeattle, WA98102United Statesph: (206) 755-9257 ***Please leave a message if we do not answer the phone and we will get back to you.fax: (206) 420-5324 citycatmobilevet@yahoo.com

Stress Reduction for Traveling

We cannot emphasize how important it is that your cat like the carrier and feel safe in it.

The goal is for your cat to learn to associate the carrier with positive experiences.

Make the carrier a familiar place at home by leaving it in a room where your cat spends a lot of time.

Place familiar soft bedding inside the carrier. Bedding or clothing with your scent can make them feel more secure.

Place treats, catnip or toys inside the carrier to encourage the cat to enter at home.

Often, you will notice that treats are removed from the carrier during the night. It may take days or weeks before your cat starts to trust the carrier. Remain calm, patient and reward desired behaviors.

Give rewards to encourage positive behavior. For example, if your cat is sitting calmly in or near a carrier, give a treat. A treat is what is highly desirable to your cat, which may be in the form of food, play or affection. Be persistent and reward every time.

More About the Carrier

Most airlines require pets to be 15 pounds or less to fly in the cabin with their owners (this weight includes both the pet and the carrier). This also means the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you. Check with the airline about the carrier size and dimensions. Most airlines sell carriers or you can buy one from a pet supply store. A commonly used pet carrier is the Sherpa Original Deluxe. Comparisons can be found on Amazon.

Before leaving, scrunch a towel up and place it into the carrier so your cat can burrow into the towel. He or she will feel hidden, which will help to decrease anxiety. Cover the carrier with a towel when traveling and make sure to keep the carrier steady when you are walking v.s. swinging it. ﻿﻿

Sedatives and Alternative Medications to Decrease Stress

Before using a sedative you should know that sedatives do have side effects. Some airlines do not allow you to give sedatives to your cat because it can increase the risk of heart and respiratory problems. Short-nosed breeds are most at risk.

Sedatives often do not cause cats to be sedate, but rather take the edge off a little bit.

Some sedatives will have the reverse effect and make cats anxious, so make sure to perform a trial run at home before leaving.

Sedatives that can used in cats include Acepromazine and phenobarbital, among others. Phenobarbital may be slightly safer. Both medications are given 1 hour before the sedation is needed and can last up to 12 hours.

As an alternative, Xanax can be used in cats to decreased anxiety. Xanax is also given 1 hour before the desired effect and lasts up to 12 hours.

Natural/Alternative Sedatives

Zylkene (Should be started one week beforehand for full effect).http://citycatpharmacy.com/product/zylkene/

City Cat Mobile Vet Service207 Harvard Ave ESeattle, WA98102United Statesph: (206) 755-9257 ***Please leave a message if we do not answer the phone and we will get back to you.fax: (206) 420-5324 citycatmobilevet@yahoo.com